Paddlers (Beginners)

Kayak and Canoe
Sales - Rentals - Excursions

So you just started paddling. Let's review some basics for flat/calm water.

Safety            Paddling with pals
I'm sure you have been told the two most important rules of paddling. 1) Alway wear your PFD. As simple as this rule is, many paddlers don't follow the best advice. 2) Never paddle alone. From time to time every paddler will paddle by themselves, but hopefully it will be in an area with other people around. It's a great activity to meet people.

Balance         The P's
The 4 P's of paddling. (Practice - Proper - Paddling - Posture) It may seem silly but one of the biggest reasons for rolling, is poor paddling posture. It's your center of gravity! Your back should be straight, with your shoulders over, or slightly ahead of, your hips. This will allow you to keep your upper body straight and still, while letting the boat rock beneath you. (THE WAGGLE)

Grip              The Grip
The Grip or the Gripe? The correct grip is necessary to make your paddling experience enjoyable. Sit in your kayak, center the paddle across the cockpit in front of you. With both hands, approximately the width of the kayak apart, grip the paddle. Your grip should be firm.  Don't "white knuckle" the paddle.   This position is just the starting point. Most importantly, it must feel comfortable in your hands. Adjusting your hand position several inches closer or wider will depend on your individual feel.

Direction            Take Direction
If you haven't yet taken a group class or private lesson, take one or maybe several.   Practice, positive, paddling. Learn from a professional the correct strokes and you'll have more fun.